Tulipa crispa Queensland - Fringed Tulip

Tulipa crispa 'Queensland' is a luxurious and delicate variety. This charming tulip bears pink double flowers that are intensely bordered with a lace of small white crystals, to the point that the flower appears to have been covered with frost in the middle of May. On the outside of the corolla, each petal displays an almost cherry-red-pink tone that fades into a gradient ranging from cream-pink to candy-pink, passing through blush-pink. It blooms quite late, in May, on short and sturdy stems. When cut, its flowers will form wonderful bouquets.

Tulipa 'Queensland' belongs to the Liliaceae family. It was obtained in 2006. Of horticultural origin, it is currently classified in the 'Crispa' group, whose main characteristic is to have finely dentate petal tips. This tulip will reach a height of 25cm (10in) when in bloom. Flowering takes place in May, a little later than that of other tulips. The flowers are double, round and full, and measure up to 6cm (2in) wide. The petals initially house some small green flames that then disappear to make way for a delightful palette of fresh pink tones. The intensely fringed edges of this tulip are almost white. The flowers last a long time in the garden as well as in a vase, and extend the tulip season until May.

Dentate tulips are appreciated for their sturdy stems, which give them good support even in hot weather. 'Queensland' looks wonderful planted en masse, or mixed with other varieties, in large flower beds. Combine it with other, earlier tulips in shades of white, mauve, or dark pink, to extend the flowering period. It can also be used as a border plant, in rock gardens, as well as in pots and containers. This tulip enhances balconies and patios very well. It pairs perfectly with tall perennials like peonies, shrubs like hydrangeas and rhododendrons, as well as small ground cover plants. Lungworts, wall bellflowers, aubrietas, and sweet alyssums can serve as a backdrop and hide yellowed leaves in the summer.